Poor literacy and numeracy skills can be overlooked in aged care staff but workplace reforms can lead to positive results. Mardi Chapman reports.

The three Rs - foundation skills of reading, writing and arithmetic - might sound a little dated in the digital age but aged care providers who invest in workplace literacy programs are benefitting from a high rate of return. Increased productivity, a safer workplace and improved client care are just some of the outcomes when aged care workers are given the opportunity to improve their English language, literacy and numeracy skills. Rod Cooke, chief executive officer of the Community Services and Health Industry Skills Council (CSHISC), says low levels of literacy in Australia are a "national...